Justice Shekhar Kumar Yadav of the Allahabad High Court sparked controversy with remarks suggesting India should align with majority views, referencing the Uniform Civil Code. His speech included derogatory comments about extremists and raised concerns regarding his impartiality. Criticism arose from legal experts about his commitment to constitutional values and judicial independence.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will celebrate the 75th Constitution Day today (26th Nov), at the Supreme Court of India, where he will release the Indian Judiciary’s annual report and deliver a speech. The year-long campaign, ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhiman,’ aims to promote constitutional values nationwide, emphasizing Dr. Ambedkar’s role and notable contributions in drafting the Constitution.
The Supreme Court of India, today (21st Oct)led by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, dismissed a petition by Dr. SN Kundra aimed at replacing “Hindutva” with “Bharatiya Samvidhanatva.” The court deemed the plea a “complete abuse of the process,” reflecting hesitation to alter foundational political concepts, despite concerns over religious nationalism’s impact on governance.
The Supreme Court today (25th Sept) cautioned judges and lawyers against personal biases impacting their duties after controversial remarks by Karnataka High Court judge Justice V Srishananda. The court emphasized national integrity, urging mindfulness due to social media’s expansive reach. While closing proceedings after an apology, it reiterated the need for impartiality in justice.
Justice Abhay Oka of the Supreme Court highlighted concerns about the rise of “mob rule” in India, where politicians promise death penalty for offenders, despite only the judiciary having the authority. He emphasized the need to preserve the judiciary’s independence and ensure timely, fair judgments, in light of recent events. Other speakers emphasized the importance of safeguarding constitutional values through education and awareness.
Today(on 13th July),Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud emphasized the importance of translating legal language into simpler terms during his address at the 3rd Convocation of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia National Law University in Lucknow. He urged educators to teach legal principles in a way that is easily understandable, including in regional languages.
Chief Justice of India D Y Chandrachud stressed the judiciary’s duty to uphold constitutional values, cautioning against personal ideologies in judgments. He emphasized the importance of impartiality and humility, urging judges to prioritize constitutional morality. Chandrachud raised concerns about judges’ personal views influencing rulings on interfaith marriages and relationships, advocating for a constitutionally grounded approach.
Former Supreme Court Justice Rohinton Nariman proposed a reform for India’s Collegium system, suggesting a panel with the Chief Justice and four retired judges to enhance judicial independence and address system flaws. He also emphasized the importance of transparency in the selection process and the inclusion of practicing members of the legal profession in the nomination process. The proposed framework aims to ensure well-qualified and committed judges while fostering judicial independence and accountability.